Why LEGO Foundation says 'PlayMatters' to children in conflict zones

Key Points:

• The LEGO Foundation has committed $97 million over five years to expand International Rescue Committee (IRC) programs that use play-based learning to support children affected by conflicts in East Africa and the Middle East.
• The partnership aims to reach 5 million children in countries experiencing evolving conflicts, including Ethiopia, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Uganda, with flexible funding to adapt to changing needs.
• IRC’s PlayMatters program trains teachers to integrate playful learning for children aged 3 to 12, helping reduce absenteeism and address trauma through culturally relevant and multilingual educational activities, including radio shows for remote access.
• The initiative highlights the importance of early childhood development and education as essential interventions in humanitarian crises, countering trends of decreasing international aid and emphasizing education as a life-sustaining need.
• The collaboration encourages greater cooperation among governments, civil society, and the private sector to address educational needs in conflict zones, with the LEGO Foundation also supporting other partnerships focused on children’s learning and wellbeing.